Plant Material - Project Planning and Management for Ecological Restoration - page 123

year-round. These cuttings can be placed directly on-site, as is the case with several willow species
( Salix spp.). Other species are not as hardy and require growing in small containers, such as four-
inch pots, tubes, or bands (fig. 8-2), before being able to withstand the conditions of being planted
on-site. Root growth pattern can also determine the type of container. Unlike the standard nursery
trade for exotics, in which containers are sized and standardized, many native species are not so
easily classified. For many species occurring in coastal North America, the container used for nut
trees has been successful in training roots to grow down and limit the amount of coiling.
Although planting species at the smallest size possible is highly recommended to permit the plant
to adapt immediately to the site conditions, it may be necessary to plant larger-sized containers. A
larger root ball can hold more moisture and is more resistant to drying out. If getting water on-site
is an issue, this may help alleviate it. Larger specimens make an immediate impact and can be seen
from a distance. Stakeholders commonly require some visual stimulus to be convinced that the site is
successful. This concern is part of the politics of restoration projects, and you must carefully evaluate
how to commit the project funds and keep your stakeholders satisfied, not always an easy situation.
Wetland plants initially were difficult to obtain; however, in some regions, numerous species
are now available as the restoration practice continues to expand. Cost may be a significant factor
in obtaining sufficient numbers of infrequently requested species. Rooted woody cuttings are an-
other way to get specimens on-site without relying on seed availability. Collection of cuttings from
a donor grove can be a quick and cost-effective way to get container plants started. Several non-
FIGURE 8-2. Container production of several species at the National Wildflower Centre, Landlife,
Liverpool, England. (Photo by Mary F. Platter-Rieger.)